Vulture species found in India

Vultures are among India's most important natural waste managers, rapidly disposing of animal carcasses and helping limit the spread of disease. India is home to several vulture species, but many have suffered dramatic population declines, particularly because of certain veterinary drugs. Here are six species you may not know are found in or associated with India. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

Egyptian Vulture: The Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) is much smaller than India's large Gyps vultures. Adults have white plumage, black flight feathers and a yellow-orange face. It is an adaptable scavenger that can be found in parts of northern and western India, although the species faces threats across its wider range. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

Himalayan Griffon: The Himalayan griffon (Gyps himalayensis) is one of the largest vultures associated with India. It breeds in the Himalayas and is particularly well adapted to high-altitude environments. With broad wings and a massive body, it can soar for long periods while searching vast mountain landscapes for carrion. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

Indian Vulture: The Indian vulture (Gyps indicus) is a large, mostly brown vulture found mainly across the Indian subcontinent. It traditionally nests on cliffs and rocky areas and plays a crucial role in clearing livestock carcasses. The species suffered a catastrophic decline after exposure to diclofenac, which caused fatal kidney failure in vultures that fed on treated cattle. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

White-Rumped Vulture: Once one of the most abundant vultures in South Asia, the white-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis) experienced a population collapse of more than 99% in parts of its range. It is recognisable by the contrasting white feathers around its lower back and rump and is now Critically Endangered. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

Red-Headed Vulture: The red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) is hard to miss, thanks to its bright red, bare head and neck. Once widespread across India, it has undergone a major decline and is now Critically Endangered. Unlike the pale-headed Gyps vultures, its striking appearance makes it one of India's most distinctive scavenging birds. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )

Slender-Billed Vulture: The slender billed vulture (Gyps tenuirostris) gets its name from its relatively narrow bill. Found in parts of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, it is highly specialised for feeding on carrion and is classified as Critically Endangered. Its decline has been closely associated with the widespread use of diclofenac. (Source: Photo by wikimedia commons )